Full Breakdown
Scott Aitchison Announces Resignation, Adding to Conservative Turnover
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event: MP Resigns at End of Fall Session
Ontario Conservative MP Scott Aitchison has confirmed that he will vacate his seat for Parry Sound–Muskoka after the conclusion of the current fall parliamentary session. The resignation will create another vacancy in the House of Commons.
Background & Context
Aitchison entered federal politics in 2019, succeeding former cabinet minister Tony Clement in the largely Conservative riding. Prior to his election, he served 25 years in municipal government, including a term as mayor of Huntsville (2014-2019). He ran for the Conservative Party leadership in 2022, finishing fifth, and was subsequently appointed the party’s housing critic. His departure follows a period of notable turnover in Pierre Poilievre’s caucus, with several colleagues crossing the floor, accepting Senate appointments, or leaving politics altogether.
Data & Statistics
- Aitchison will be the eighth Conservative MP to leave the caucus since the 2025 election, according to a recent report.
- He is the twelfth MP overall to resign since January of this year, based on cumulative reporting.
- At present, six seats in the House of Commons are vacant; Aitchison’s resignation will raise that number to seven.
- Recent polling cited by a research firm shows the Liberal Party at 49.9 % support versus the Conservatives at 27.9 %, with 61.5 % of Canadians preferring Mark Carney as prime minister over Poilievre’s 19.6 %.
Timeline
- 2019 – Elected MP for Parry Sound–Muskoka.
- 2022 – Ran for Conservative leadership; appointed housing critic after the race.
- September 30, 2026 – Public announcement of resignation posted on social media.
- Fall parliamentary session – Scheduled to conclude later this year; resignation to take effect thereafter.
Official Statements & Responses
Poilievre also thanked Aitchison for his public service and wished him success in his next chapter.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Scott’s greatest strength has always been his connection to his home. Whether fighting for local workers and businesses, helping people navigate the federal government, or championing a community fund to support housing, food security and mental health in Parry Sound–Muskoka, he never forgot who sent him to Ottawa,” — Pierre Poilievre, preferred prime minister
- “To the people of Parry Sound–Muskoka who placed their trust in me, and those who I disagreed with but promised passionate representation to, I hope I have made you proud,” — Scott Aitchison
- “I have made the difficult decision to resign my seat following the conclusion of the fall parliamentary session. After 30 years of public life, it is time for a new chapter where I will explore new opportunities,” — Scott Aitchison
- “Scott is a friend, a dedicated public servant and a man who cares deeply about the people he represents,” — Pierre Poilievre, preferred prime minister
What’s Next
By-elections will be called to fill the seven vacant seats, including Aitchison’s riding. The House of Commons is scheduled to sit through mid-December, after which the newly created vacancies will be contested. The Conservative caucus will need to adjust its parliamentary strategy amid the growing number of open seats.